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ABC Unified proclaims National Hispanic Heritage Month and spotlights student programs
Summary
The board adopted a resolution recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15) after presentations by the equity office highlighting student advisory councils, AP and Seal of Biliteracy trends and district programming serving a ~47% Hispanic/Latino student population.
The ABC Unified School District board on Sept. 16 adopted a resolution (25.5) recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month and heard a district presentation about activities and data tied to Hispanic student achievement and identity.
Interim equity staff and special programs presenters outlined district plans for curriculum resources, school celebrations and student advisory council activities to mark the month, and they highlighted data showing increases in Seal of Biliteracy recognition and gains in AP enrollment and exam passage rates among Hispanic/Latino students. Presenters said the district is seeking to expand pathways to biliteracy and remove barriers to AP access.
Details and context: Mariss Harris and Dr. Evelyn Ha explained that the district’s theme follows the national prompt — ‘‘collective heritage: honoring the past, inspiring the future’’ — and detailed local activities such as classroom lessons, cultural events, a college expo trip for high school students (about 95 students attended), and HSLAC gatherings. Staff noted Hispanic/Latino students represent roughly 47% of district enrollment and described strategies to close opportunity gaps in advanced coursework.
Board reaction and discussion: Trustees praised the programming and recognized the importance of representation for students. Board members asked for concrete steps to expand AP access and to ensure recognition programs such as the Seal of Biliteracy are articulated as a pathway starting earlier in students’ careers. One trustee underscored that increasing representation in leadership and instruction helps students ‘‘see’’ themselves in those roles.
Vote: The board approved resolution 25.5 recognizing National Hispanic Heritage Month by unanimous vote (7–0) following the presentations and a musical performance by Artisia High School’s band.
Next steps: Staff said they will continue to provide data on outcome trends (AP participation and Seal of Biliteracy progress) and work with counselors and school teams to expand access to advanced coursework and language pathways.
